New screen body launches to keep NZ competitive on world stage - IF Magazine
Jackie Keast, October 17, 2025
A group of industry leaders and screen businesses have teamed to officially launch Screen NZ International, an industry body focused on strengthening international production investment in Aotearoa.
The aim of the not-for-profit organisation is to see New Zealand remain a globally competitive screen destination, by advocating for competitive incentives, building relationships with clients, providing research and insights and promoting the country internationally. The hope is to work alongside government, agencies and industry partners.
Founders and supporters cover physical production, finance, studio infrastructure, equipment supply and services, post-production and VFX.
Ground Control producer Mel Turner is the body’s executive chair, with Xytech Group business development manager Harry Harrison executive vice chair, Acclime director Phil Gore executive financial controller, and unit production manager Pip Gillings executive administrator.
Other executive committee members include Acclime executive director Andy Archer, Ground Control producer Axel Paton, financial controller David Rowell, producer Honor Byrne, Department of Post CEO James Brookes, The Rebel Fleet CEO Mike Urban, Pro Services CEO director Neil Radley and unit production manager Simon Ambridge.
Screen International NZ points to projects such as Netflix series Sweet Tooth to demonstrate the value of international production to the New Zealand economy: For every $NZ1 rebated, $NZ6.91 was generated in GDP, with more than 1,180 jobs and 950 New Zealand businesses directly benefiting across a six month shoot.
Further, according to the NZ Government’s Budget 2025 documents, $NZ1.5 billion in rebates over 10 years generated $NZ7.5 billion in economic activity for New Zealand – a fivefold return to the wider economy.
“International screen production has been a critical contributor to New Zealand’s economy and global brand for decades, contributing billions in export earnings, jobs, and innovation, yet it remains one of our country’s lesser known stories,” said Turner.
“What has been missing until now is a permanent organisation formed by industry, dedicated solely to supporting and advocating for international screen sector businesses in New Zealand. Screen NZ International exists to fill that need.”
Harrison adds: “International screen production dollars are effectively export dollars, with direct foreign investment entering the New Zealand economy and benefiting a wide range of industries beyond the screen sector.’
The nascent organisation conducted a crew survey in July, receiving more than 900 responses. Its key findings were there was a significant reduction in production in 2025 compared with 2024 – more than 70 per cent. More than 80 per cent of crew had inconsistent work through the first half of the year, and did not have confirmed work opportunities for the rest of 2025. The results of the survey were provided to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Finance and Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis.
However, the aim is for Screen NZ International to remain future-focused, regardless of economic cycles or global shifts in production.
“This is not an organisation born out of short-term pressures,” said Turner.
“It’s about creating the kind of strong, independent and enduring leadership for New Zealand screen businesses that will ensure global production continues to invest in, and deliver for, New Zealand well into the future.”